VIOLENCE against WOMEN:

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1VIOLENCE against WOMEN:ITS SCOPE AND RELEVANCE FOR THE CHURCH TODAYWomen’s Ministries DepartmentGeneral Conference of theSeventh-day Adventists

2I -INTRODUCTION“So I take a blanket and I spend the night with my children out in the cold because he is hitting me too much and I have to take the kids to stop him hitting them too. I would go up the mountain, and sleep there all night. I’ve done that more than ten times.” Woman interviewed in PeruINTRODUCTION“So I take a blanket and I spend the night with my children out in the cold because he is hitting me too much and I have to take the kids to stop him hitting them too. I would go up the mountain, and sleep there all night. I’ve done that more than ten times.”Woman interviewed in PeruJin Yi is 19 but still looks about 12, her age when she was sold into marriage to a 30-year old peasant. These days, the once-rebellious youngster cuts a timid figure. "I forgot how to laugh or cry," she says. "Each time I did, his family beat me. They treated me like a slave doing hard labour. Everyone knew about me in the village, but when I protested and ran away, I was caught and beaten. I didn't try again." Jin is one of the lucky ones. After seven years held against her will in southern China, she was rescued by Peking police on May, 2000 in a national crackdown on human trafficking.Woman interviewed in China

3Gender-based violence is a global public health, economic development and human rights problem of epidemic proportionsApproximately one in three of the world’s women will experience gender-related violence in her lifetime, with rates reaching 70 percent in some countries.Gender-based violence is a global public health, economic development and human rights problem of epidemic proportions. Throughout the world, violence against women and girls is perpetrated within marriage and families by husbands, intimate partners and relatives; within communities by strangers and traditional leaders; in the workplace; across international borders as women are trafficked for sex and labor; and as a tool of war by military forces. In wartime and in post-conflict settings, women seeking refuge are often victims of exploitation and assault. Approximately one in three of the world’s women will experience gender-related violence in her lifetime, with rates reaching 70 percent in some countries.

4“…violence against women" means any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life.” United Nations’ General Assembly Declaration of the Elimination of Violence against Women (resolution 48/104 of December 1993The most widely used definition of violence against women (VAW) is:“…violence against women" means any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life.” United Nations’ General Assembly Declaration of the Elimination of Violence against Women (resolution 48/104 of December 1993

5II. BACK TO BASICS: A FOUNDATION“Surely you know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you! God will destroy anyone who destroys God’s temple. For Gods’ temple is holy, and you yourselves are his temple.” 1 Cor. 3:16, 17 (TEV)II. BACK TO BASICS: A FOUNDATIONWhen we waken to the issues and prevalence of gender violence in our world, we may feel overwhelmed. But once we take heart and begin to search for answers, we will find sources of encouragement, practical information, and inspiration.Turning to the Bible, we are reminded of the inestimable value of every person on earth. God loves every person—whether that person ever turns to Him or not. God is Love! We may easily mouth the words “God so loved the world.” Do we remember that means EVERY person—the annoying, the old and feeble, the abused wife, the pregnant teen, the girls not allowed an education, the woman murdered as an “honor killing”—every one!Many scriptures remind us of each person’s value. In I Corinthians, Paul clarifies why we must respect one another, why we must not harm another: “Surely you know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you! God will destroy anyone who destroys God’s temple. For Gods’ temple is holy, and you yourselves are his temple.” 1 Cor. 3:16, 17 (TEV) How can we choose to do nothing when others suffer the unspeakable anguish of gender-based violence?God is love. His word tells us we must love others; we must care about the gender-based violence that kills or wounds thousands of women around the world every day. “If we say we love God, but hate others, we are liars….The command that Christ has given us is this: whoever loves God must love others also.” I John 4:20, 21 (TEV)Not only the Bible but also the writings of Ellen White remind us of the value of each person God has created. “Man must be of value….Christ’s taking human nature upon himself shows that He places a value upon every soul….When God gave His son, He gave all heaven. He could do no more” Te 287.

6III. RECOGNIZING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMENViolence against women jeopardizes women’s lives, bodies, psychological integrity and freedom and has been called the “the most pervasive yet least recognized human rights abuse in the world.”III. RECOGNIZING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMENViolence against women jeopardizes women’s lives, bodies, psychological integrity and freedom and has been called the “the most pervasive yet least recognized human rights abuse in the world.” Yet many of us rarely think about this issue. As children of God we must. We must inform ourselves. We must recognize Christ’s mission as our mission—to set free the captives.

7Activity 1: Definition of Violence Against WomenWhat does the phrase “violence against women” mean to you?What acts do you consider to be “violence against women”?◘ Activity 1: Definition of Violence Against WomenFacilitator leads a brainstorming session to create a list of acts that constitute violence against women. Facilitator asks each of the participants to share their ideas randomly or in turn. The ideas are not criticized or discussed; participants may build on ideas voiced by others. The questions for brainstorming are:What does the phrase “violence against women” mean to you?What acts do you consider to be “violence against women”?

8A. EXPANDEDThe definition for violence against women is amplified in article 2 of the United Nations Declaration, which identifies three areas in which violence commonly takes place:A. EXPANDEDThe definition for violence against women is amplified in article 2 of the UN Declaration, which identifies three areas in which violence commonly takes place:

91. In the FAMILYPhysical, sexual and psychological violence that occurs in the family, including battering; sexual abuse of female children in the household; dowry-related violence; marital rape; female genital mutilation and other traditional practices harmful to women; non-spousal violence; and violence related to exploitation;Physical, sexual and psychological violence that occurs in the family, including battering; sexual abuse of female children in the household; dowry-related violence; marital rape; female genital mutilation and other traditional practices harmful to women; non-spousal violence; and violence related to exploitation;

102. Within the COMMUNITYPhysical, sexual and psychological violence that occurs within the general community, including rape; sexual abuse; sexual harassment and intimidation at work, in educational institutions and elsewhere; trafficking in women; and forced prostitution;Physical, sexual and psychological violence that occurs within the general community, including rape; sexual abuse; sexual harassment and intimidation at work, in educational institutions and elsewhere; trafficking in women; and forced prostitution;

113. Perpetrated or condoned by THE STATEPhysical, sexual and psychological violence perpetrated or condoned by the State, wherever it occurs.Physical, sexual and psychological violence perpetrated or condoned by the State, wherever it occurs.

12B. THE PROBLEMWomen often suffer harm which is either unique to their gender, such as female genital mutilation or forced non-choice abortion, or which is more commonly inflicted upon women than men, such as rape or domestic violence.B. THE PROBLEMWe know that violence against women is an atrocious human rights violation that must be stopped. What people often don’t realize, however, is that violence against women is also a major cause of poverty and a huge barrier to economic opportunity. It keeps women from getting an education, working, and earning the income they need to lift their families out of poverty.Here are a few general examples of gender-based violence:Women often suffer harm which is either unique to their gender, such as female genital mutilation or forced non-choice abortion, or which is more commonly inflicted upon women than men, such as rape or domestic violence.

13Women may also suffer harm solely or exclusively because they are women, i.e. as a result of their gender, such as the policies of the Taliban in Afghanistan.Women often suffer harm at the hands of private individuals, such as family members who threaten them with honor killings, or abusive spouses who batter them.Women may also suffer harm solely or exclusively because they are women, i.e. as a result of their gender, such as the policies of the Taliban in Afghanistan.Women often suffer harm at the hands of private individuals, such as family members who threaten them with honor killings, or abusive spouses who batter them.

14IV. KINDS OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMENWe can place various types of violence against women in three main categories. We will list them and then talk briefly about each one.IV. KINDS OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMENWe can place various types of violence against women in three main categories. We will list them and then talk briefly about each one

15A. Violence Against Women in the Family SettingDomestic violenceTraditional practicesFemale genital mutilationSon preferenceDowry-related violence and early marriageA. Violence Against Women in the Family SettingWithin the family is generally where the following types of violence against women occur:Domestic violenceTraditional practicesFemale genital mutilationSon preferenceDowry-related violence and early marriage

161. Domestic violenceFor women aged 15 to 44 years, violence is a major cause of death and disability.Studies show that between one quarter and one half of all women in the world have been abused by intimate partners. Worldwide, 40-70% of all female murder victims are killed by an intimate partner.Now let us look briefly at each of these five kinds of violence.1. Domestic violenceViolence against women in the family occurs in developed and developing countries alike. It has long been considered a private matter by bystanders—including neighbors, the community and government. But such private matters have a tendency to become public tragedies.Statistics paint a horrifying picture of the social and health consequences of violence against women. For women aged 15 to 44 years, violence is a major cause of death and disability.A study conducted in São Paulo, Brazil, reported that 13 percent of deaths of women of reproductive age were homicides, of which 60 percent were committed by the victims’ partners.Studies show that between one quarter and one half of all women in the world have been abused by intimate partners. Worldwide, 40-70% of all female murder victims are killed by an intimate partner.In the United States, a woman is beaten every 18 minutes. Indeed, domestic violence is the leading cause of injury among women of reproductive age in the United States. Between 22 and 35 per cent of women who visit emergency rooms are there for that reason.In Peru, 70 per cent of all crimes reported to the police involve women beaten by their husbands.Gradually some governments are coming to recognize the importance of protecting victims of domestic abuse and taking action to punish perpetrators.

172. Traditional practicesIn many countries, women fall victim to traditional practices that violate their human rights.These violations include female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM), dowry murder, so-called “honour killings,” and early marriage.2. Traditional practicesIn many countries, women fall victim to traditional practices that violate their human rights. The persistence of the problem has much to do with the fact that most of these physically and psychologically harmful customs are deeply rooted in the tradition and culture of their society.These violations include female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM), dowry murder, so-called “honour killings,” and early marriage. They lead to death, disability, physical and psychological harm for millions of women

183. Female genital mutilationAccording to the World Health Organization, 85 million to 115 million girls and women in the population have undergone some form of female genital mutilation and suffer from its adverse health effects.3. Female genital mutilationAccording to the World Health Organization, 85 million to 115 million girls and women in the population have undergone some form of female genital mutilation and suffer from its adverse health effects.“Even though cultural practices may appear senseless or destructive from the standpoint of others, they have meaning and fulfill a function for those who practice them. However, culture is not static; it is in constant flux, adapting and reforming. People will change their behavior when they understand the hazards and indignity of harmful practices and when they realize that it is possible to give up harmful practices without giving up meaningful aspects of their culture.”— Female Genital Mutilation, A joint WHO/UNICEF/UNFPA statement, 1997.

19Every year an estimated 2 million young girls undergo this procedureEvery year an estimated 2 million young girls undergo this procedure. Most live in Africa and Asia—but an increasing number can be found among immigrant and refugee families in Western Europe and North America..It is estimated that more than 130 million girls and women alive today have undergone FGM, mainly in Africa and some Middle Eastern countries, and two million girls a year are at risk of mutilation.Every year an estimated 2 million young girls undergo this procedure. Most live in Africa and Asia—but an increasing number can be found among immigrant and refugee families in Western Europe and North America. Indeed, the practice has been outlawed in some European countries.It is estimated that more than 130 million girls and women alive today have undergone FGM, mainly in Africa and some Middle Eastern countries, and two million girls a year are at risk of mutilation.In France, a Malian was convicted in a criminal court after his baby girl died of a female circumcision-related infection. The procedure had been performed on the infant at home.There is a growing consensus that the best way to eliminate these practices is through educational campaigns that emphasize their dangerous health consequences. Several governments have been actively promoting such campaigns in their countries.

204. Son preferenceSon preference is the consistent favoring of male children, affects women in many countries, particularly in Asia. Its consequences can be anything from foetal or female infanticide to neglect of the girl child over her brother.4. Son preferenceSon preference is the consistent favoring of male children, affects women in many countries, particularly in Asia. Its consequences can be anything from foetal or female infanticide to neglect of the girl child over her brother in terms of such essential needs as nutrition, basic health care and education.In India’s wealthiest state, Punjab, statistics show that for every 1,000 boys there are 300 girls among ‘higher caste’ families. But ActionAid said that ideally for every 1000 boys, there should be 950 girls. “In urban sites, families abort daughters because they have access to technology,”

21In China and India, some women choose to terminate their pregnancies when expecting daughters but carry their pregnancies to term when expecting sons.Indian gender-detection clinics drew protests from women's groups after the appearance of advertisements suggesting that it was better to spend $38 now to terminate a female foetus than $3,800 later on her dowry.In China and India, some women choose to terminate their pregnancies when expecting daughters but carry their pregnancies to term when expecting sons.According to reports from India, genetic testing for sex selection has become a booming business, especially in the country's northern regions. Indian gender-detection clinics drew protests from women's groups after the appearance of advertisements suggesting that it was better to spend $38 now to terminate a female foetus than $3,800 later on her dowry.A study of amniocentesis procedures conducted in a large Bombay hospital found that 95.5 per cent of foetuses identified as female were aborted, compared with a far smaller percentage of male foetuses.

225. Dowry-related violence and early marriageIn some countries, weddings are preceded by the payment of an agreed-upon dowry by the bride's family. Failure to pay the dowry can lead to violence.In some countries, weddings are preceded by the payment of an agreed-upon dowry by the bride's family. Failure to pay the dowry can lead to violence

23In Bangladesh, a bride whose dowry was deemed too small was disfigured after her husband threw acid on her face.Small community studies have also indicated that dowry demands have played an important role in women being burned to death and in deaths of women being labeled suicides.In India, an average of five women a day are burned in dowry-related disputes—and many more cases are never reported.In Bangladesh, a bride whose dowry was deemed too small was disfigured after her husband threw acid on her face.Small community studies have also indicated that dowry demands have played an important role in women being burned to death and in deaths of women being labeled suicides. In India, an average of five women a day are burned in dowry-related disputes—and many more cases are never reported.Early marriage, especially without the consent of the girl, is another form of human rights violation. Early marriage followed by multiple pregnancies can affect the health of women for life.While cultures throughout the world have dowries or similar payments, dowry murder occurs predominantly in South Asia. According to official crime statistics in India, 6,822 women were killed in 2002 as a result of such violence.In Bangladesh, there have been many incidents of acid attacks due to dowry disputes, leading often to blindness, disfigurement, and death. In 2002, more than 300 women and girls in Bangladesh were victims of acid attacks; in 2005 that number was 267.PART 2SUGGESTION:This seminar may be presented in either one or two sections. If you choose to present it in two sections, this is the best place to divide it. Be sure that a brief summary concludes part one and a brief review introduces part two.

24B. Violence Against Women in the CommunityRapeSexual assault within marriageSexual harassmentProstitution and traffickingPornographyMistreatment of women migrant workersB. Violence Against Women in the CommunityActs of violence against women in the setting of the community include the following:RapeSexual assault within marriageSexual harassmentProstitution and traffickingPornographyMistreatment of women migrant workers

251. RapeRape can occur anywhere, even in the family, where it can take the form of marital rape or incest.It occurs in the community, where a woman can fall prey to any abuser.It also occurs in situations of armed conflict and in refugee camps.1. RapeRape can occur anywhere, even in the family, where it can take the form of marital rape or incest. It occurs in the community, where a woman can fall prey to any abuser. It also occurs in situations of armed conflict and in refugee camps.

26In South Africa, a sex crime happens every twenty seconds. A report of seven different countries found that more than 60% of sexual assault victims know their attackers.In South Africa, a sex crime happens every twenty seconds.In some countries, up to one-third of adolescent girls report forced sexual initiation.In the United States, national statistics indicate that a woman is raped every six minutes.In the United States, national statistics indicate that a woman is raped every six minutes.Relations between residents of the Japanese island of Okinawa and American GIs were thrown into turmoil in 1995 after two marines and a sailor allegedly kidnapped and raped a 12-year-old girl.A report of seven different countries found that more than 60% of sexual assault victims know their attackers.In South Africa, a sex crime happens every twenty seconds.In some countries, up to one-third of adolescent girls report forced sexual initiation.In Uttar Pradesh, India, about 2/3 of 98 respondents reported being forced into sex by their husbands about 1/3 of them by beatings.Statistics on the frequency of rape underline the importance of education to sensitize the public about the special horrors of rape, and of sensitivity training for the police and hospital staff who work with victims.

272. Sexual assault within marriageSexual assault within marriage is included under this category because it is the community attitudes prevalent in many areas—attitudes held by law enforcement, local leaders, neighbors, and even church leadership—which allow this type of violence to go unpunished2. Sexual assault within marriageSexual assault within marriage is included under this category because it is the community attitudes prevalent in many areas—attitudes held by law enforcement, local leaders, neighbors, and even church leadership—which allow this type of violence to go unpunished. In many countries sexual assault by a husband on his wife is not considered to be a crime: a wife is expected to submit. It is thus very difficult in practice for a woman to prove that sexual assault has occurred unless she can demonstrate serious injury.

283. Sexual harassmentSexual harassment in the workplace is a growing concern for women. Employers abuse their authority to seek sexual favours from their female co-workers or subordinates, sometimes promising promotions or other forms of career advancement.3. Sexual harassmentSexual harassment in the workplace is a growing concern for women. Employers abuse their authority to seek sexual favours from their female co-workers or subordinates, sometimes promising promotions or other forms of career advancement or simply creating an untenable and hostile work environment. Women who refuse to give in to such unwanted sexual advances often run the risk of anything from demotion to dismissal.

294. Prostitution and traffickingMany women are forced into prostitution either by their parents, husbands or boyfriends—or as a result of the difficult economic and social conditions in which they find themselves.4. Prostitution and traffickingMany women are forced into prostitution either by their parents, husbands or boyfriends—or as a result of the difficult economic and social conditions in which they find themselves. They are also lured into prostitution, sometimes by "mail-order bride" agencies that promise to find them a husband or a job in a foreign country. As a result, they very often find themselves illegally confined in brothels in slavery-like conditions where they are physically abused and their passports withheld.

30More than 100,000 women are trafficked annually in South Asia.An estimated two million women are caught each year in the worldwide sex industry while countless children and other women are forced into low-wage jobs.In Thailand, prostitutes who complain to the police are often arrested and sent back to the brothels upon payment of a fine.More than 100,000 women are trafficked annually in South Asia.An estimated two million women are caught each year in the worldwide sex industry while countless children and other women are forced into low-wage jobs. UN, 2008The UN said there are no accurate statistics, but the number of women trafficked across borders each year could be twice as high if the count includes those forced into domestic situations.In Thailand, prostitutes who complain to the police are often arrested and sent back to the brothels upon payment of a fine.The extent of trafficking in women and girls has reached alarming proportions, especially in Asian countries. More than 100,000 women are trafficked annually in South Asia.Many women and girl children are trafficked across borders, often with the complicity of border guards. In one incident, five young prostitutes burned to death in a brothel fire because they had been chained to their beds.At the same time, sex tours of developing countries are a well-organized industry in several European and other industrialized countries.

315. PornographyAnother concern highlighted is pornography, which represents a form of violence against women that "glamorizes the degradation and maltreatment of women and asserts their subordinate function as mere receptacles for male lust."5. PornographyAnother concern highlighted is pornography, which represents a form of violence against women that "glamorizes the degradation and maltreatment of women and asserts their subordinate function as mere receptacles for male lust."

32According to comScore Media Metrix, there were 63According to comScore Media Metrix, there were 63.4 million unique visitors to adult websites in December of 2005, reaching 37.2% of the Internet audience.According to the Florida Family Association, PornCrawler, their specialized software program, identified 20 U.S. companies that accounted for more than 70 percent of 297 million porn links on the Internet.According to comScore Media Metrix, there were 63.4 million unique visitors to adult websites in December of 2005, reaching 37.2% of the Internet audience.According to the Florida Family Association, PornCrawler, their specialized software program, identified 20 U.S. companies that accounted for more than 70 percent of 297 million porn links on the Internet.By the end of 2004, there were 420 million pages of pornography, and it is believed that the majority of these websites are owned by less than 50 companies (LaRue, Jan. “Obscenity and the First Amendment.” Summit on Pornography. Rayburn House Office Building. Room May 19, 2005).The Internet pornography industry generates $12 billion dollars in annual revenue – larger than the combined annual revenues of ABC, NBC, and CBS (Family Safe Media, January 10, 2006, <http://www.familysafemedia.com/pornography_statistics.html>).

336. Violence against women migrant workersThe migrant workers themselves fare badly, and sometimes tragically. Many become virtual slaves, subject to abuse and rape by their employers.In the Middle East and Persian Gulf region, there are an estimated 1.2 million women, mainly Asians, who are employed as domestic servants.6. Violence against women migrant workersFemale migrant workers typically leave their countries for better living conditions and better pay—but the real benefits accrue to both the host countries and the countries of origin. The migrant workers themselves fare badly, and sometimes tragically. Many become virtual slaves, subject to abuse and rape by their employers.In the Middle East and Persian Gulf region, there are an estimated 1.2 million women, mainly Asians, who are employed as domestic servants. According to the independent human rights group Middle East Watch, female migrant workers in Kuwait often suffer beatings and sexual assaults at the hands of their employers.Working conditions are often appalling, and employers prevent women from escaping by seizing their passports or identity papers.

34C. Violence perpetrated or condoned by StatesExamples include:Custodial violence against womenViolence against women in situations of armed conflictViolence against refugee and displaced womenC. Violence perpetrated or condoned by StatesPerhaps most appalling of all the gender-based violence is that which is perpetrated or condoned—or at the very least ignored—by those responsible for upholding the law and providing protection. Examples include:Custodial violence against womenViolence against women in situations of armed conflictViolence against refugee and displaced women

351. Custodial violence against womenViolence against women by the very people who are supposed to protect them—members of the law enforcement and criminal justice systems—is widespread.1. Custodial violence against womenViolence against women by the very people who are supposed to protect them—members of the law enforcement and criminal justice systems—is widespread. Women are physically or verbally abused; they also suffer sexual and physical torture.

362. Violence against women in situations of armed conflictRape has been widely used as a weapon of war whenever armed conflicts arise between different parties. It has been used all over the world: in Chiapas, Mexico, in Rwanda, in Kuwait, in Haiti, in Colombia.2. Violence against women in situations of armed conflictRape has been widely used as a weapon of war whenever armed conflicts arise between different parties. It has been used all over the world: in Chiapas, Mexico, in Rwanda, in Kuwait, in Haiti, in Colombia.Women and girl children are frequently victims of gang rape committed by soldiers from all sides of a conflict. Such acts are done mainly to trample the dignity of the victims. Rape has been used to reinforce the policy of ethnic cleansing in the war that has been tearing apart the former Yugoslavia.

373. Violence against refugee and displaced womenWomen and children form the great majority of refugee populations all over the world and are especially vulnerable to violence and exploitation. In refugee camps, they are raped and abused by military and immigration personnel, bandit groups, male refugees and rival ethnic groups.3. Violence against refugee and displaced womenWomen and children form the great majority of refugee populations all over the world and are especially vulnerable to violence and exploitation. In refugee camps, they are raped and abused by military and immigration personnel, bandit groups, male refugees and rival ethnic groups. They are also forced into prostitution.

38V. GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AND THE CHURCHMany denominations and communities of faith recognize the urgent need to end the violence against women and to bring about justice.V. GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AND THE CHURCHA.SPEAKING OUTMany denominations and communities of faith recognize the urgent need to end the violence against women and to bring about justice.

39A. SPEAKING OUTMany have created, or support, organizations working to create awareness, to educate the public, and to find ways to stop the violence.For example, the World Alliance of Reformed Churches [WARC] expressed concern, especially in light of the current world economic crisis and its effect on violence against women. “We cannot continue to ignore the plight of women and girls who are attacked in their homes or are targets of war crimes. WARC calls for renewed commitment to accelerate rather than slow down the process of seeking to end violence against women and girls and to bring about justice.” Poor women in poor countries suffer the most from the impact of the economic crisis. Increased social unrest leads to rising levels of violence, with women and girls most vulnerable to attack. Yet funding for program designed to protect and empower women is being reduced, points out a spokesperson for WARC. (From WARC statement issued March 4, 2009, to mark International Women’s Day)Many have created, or support, organizations working to create awareness, to educate the public, and to find ways to stop the violence.

40The Seventh-day Adventist Church is also speaking out about violence against women. We recognize that as believers in a heavenly Father, we must become agents of change, helping to end the evils of abuse and gender-based violence—both in society and within the church itself.The Seventh-day Adventist Church is also speaking out about violence against women. We recognize that as believers in a heavenly Father, we must become agents of change, helping to end the evils of abuse and gender-based violence—both in society and within the church itself. The Seventh-day Adventist Church’s position is clear in the following statement:Seventh-day Adventists affirm the dignity and worth of each human being and decry all forms of physical, sexual and emotional abuse and family violence.We recognize the global extent of this problem and the serious, long-term effects upon the lives of all involved. We believe that Christians must respond to abuse and family violence both within the church and in the community. We take seriously reports of abuse and violence and have highlighted these issues for discussion at this international assembly. We believe that to remain indifferent and unresponsive is to condone, perpetuate, and potentially extend such behavior.We accept our responsibility to cooperate with other professional services, to listen and care for those suffering from abuse and family violence, to highlight the injustices, and to speak out in defense of victims. We will help persons in need to identify and access the range of available professional services. (Voted by General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventists Administrative Committee, at the general Conference session in Utrecht, the Netherlands, June 29-July, 1995.)

41B. Abuse within the FlockEven though as Christians we abhor abuse and violence against women, it is necessary to recognize that a congregation is made up of human beings, not saints; and that humans have failings and weaknesses. We must not close our eyes to the fact that domestic abuse and violence against women are not limited to certain areas, economic groups, countries, areas, or social classes. Our churches are not immune.While little research has been done, studies indicate that abusers and victims of abuse are found within our congregations.“Significant levels of physical, emotional and sexual abuse were reported by the nearly 8,000 randomly selected respondents to the Adventist Family Survey initiated by the General Conference Family Ministries office, [and] completed in parts of seven world divisions. A range of 8-18% of female respondents reported being sexually abused….Reports of physical (15-43%) and emotional abuse (27-69%) among women were considerably higher than for sexual abuse.“The Adventist Review (August 1994) reported on a study [by a Family Ministries Committee in one U.S. conference] in which over 500 randomly selected church members responded. Forty percent answered affirmatively to the question ‘Were you ever the victim of physical abuse in your home up to age 18?’ ….Verbal and emotional abuse was reported by 43% of the respondents.“Certainly these wounded individuals and families deserve a compassionate response from the Church. To remain indifferent and unresponsive is to condone, perpetuate, and potentially extend such behavior.” [“Abuse and Family Violence: A Global Affliction,” adventist.org]A more recent study conducted in one North American conference “surveyed 1,431 adults—men and women—and found some startling results. Nearly 34 percent of women and more than 20 percent of men reported being assaulted by an intimate partner.”The researcher points out that, recognizing the prevalence of abuse within the church, we must do more than talk about it. “It is our ethical and moral responsibility to promote peace and healing to ultimately end abuse in the Adventist Church.”The importance of this topic was underscored by Jan Paulsen, president of the Seventh-day Adventist world church. Paulsen emphasized that “violence of any kind in the church” is unacceptable: “We need to develop a culture of kindness, care, consideration, [and] non-abuse….[It] is not just physical; mental [emotional] abuse can be just as bad.” (“Culture of Kindness Can Help Stop…,” Adventist World-NAD, August 2007, pp. 6-7)The importance of this topic was underscored by Jan Paulsen, president of the Seventh-day Adventist world church. Paulsen emphasized that “violence of any kind in the church” is unacceptable: “We need to develop a culture of kindness, care, consideration, [and] non-abuse….[It] is not just physical; mental [emotional] abuse can be just as bad.” (“Culture of Kindness Can Help Stop…,” Adventist World-NAD, August 2007, pp. 6-7)

42As a church, we must find ways to change attitudes and traditions that condone or excuse abuse. We must consciously work to eliminate the attitudes as well as the practices.“Changing people's attitude and mentality towards women will take a long time—at least a generation, many believe, and perhaps longer. Nevertheless, raising awareness of the issue of violence against women, and educating boys and men to view women as valuable partners in life, in the development of a society and in the attainment of peace are just as important as taking legal steps to protect women's human rights.”As a church, we must find ways to change attitudes and traditions that condone or excuse abuse. We must consciously work to eliminate the attitudes as well as the practices.

43VI. GLOBAL AND LOCALThe meaning of gender and sexuality and the balance of power between women and men at all levels of society must be reviewed. Combating violence against women requires challenging the way that gender roles and power relations are articulated in society.VI. GLOBAL AND LOCALA. THINKING GLOBALLYThe meaning of gender and sexuality and the balance of power between women and men at all levels of society must be reviewed.

44A. THINKING GLOBALLYCombating violence against women requires challenging the way that gender roles and power relations are articulated in society.Combating violence against women requires challenging the way that gender roles and power relations are articulated in society.The United Nations Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) states that "'discrimination against women' shall mean any distinction, exclusion or restriction made on the basis of sex which has the effect or purpose of impairing or nullifying the recognition, enjoyment or exercise by women, irrespective of their marital status, on a basis of equality of men and women, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural, civil or any other field."It also states that "'violence against women' means any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life."

45Activity 2: Violence against Women as a Human Rights ViolationWhat definition of the term “violence against women” is given in the UN statement?What human rights are violated by violence against women?What parts of these documents are most relevant to our local community?◘ Activity 2: Violence against Women as a Human Rights ViolationFacilitator divides participants into small groups of 4 or 5 and hands out to each group the text of the CEDAW declaration and United Nations statement. Facilitator allows the participants 10 minutes to read and discuss the two documents and answer the questions below:What definition of the term “violence against women” is given in the UN statement?What human rights are violated by violence against women?What actions does CEDAW recommend to the States in this document regarding discrimination against women?What parts of these documents are most relevant to our local community?

46B. THINKING LOCALLYIf there is to be global change, we must confront the problems locally. The impact we can make locally can have an influence globally, but change must begin locally. Each of us must realize “I can be a change agent. I can make a difference.”B. THINKING LOCALLYIf there is to be global change, we must confront the problems locally. The impact we can make locally can have an influence globally, but change must begin locally. Each of us must realize “I can be a change agent. I can make a difference”

47Activity 3: Here and NowIt is important to raise awareness of global aspects of gender-based violence. It is also important to look at problems of abuse and violence which are close to us. What are the causes, the needs, the obstacles in my area?◘ Activity 3: Here and NowIt is important to raise awareness of global aspects of gender-based violence. It is also important to look at problems of abuse and violence which are close to us. What are the causes, the needs, the obstacles in my area?1.Needs: Facilitator will ask small discussion groups of 4 to 6 to list four local gender-based violence issues and then rank them in order of importance by voting. Each group member may vote twice. Ask a few groups to share their rankings with the entire congregation if there is time and they are comfortable doing so.2. Resources: Facilitators will ask members of the same small groups to compile a list of four or more organizations or resources available in the local area relevant to abuse and gender-based violence. (Might include sources of victim assistance, as well as literacy, budgeting, parenting or relationship classes, etc.)

48VII. ACTIONDuring this presentation, we have heard about many types of gender violence. We recognize the harm such abuse does—to our families, our community, and our society. Together, we can find ways to address some issues most relevant to our community or society. Let’s list some of your ideas.VII. ACTIONA. WHAT CAN I DO?During this presentation, we have heard about many types of gender violence. We recognize the harm such abuse does—to our families, our community, and our society. Together, we can find ways to address some issues most relevant to our community or society. Let’s list some of your ideas.Facilitator: ask for suggestions from your discussion group. If possible write them on a chalkboard or flip chart. Then add items from the following list, allowing time for comment if possible.]

49 A. WHAT CAN I DO?Educate ourselves about the gender-based violence most prevalent in our community.Evaluate our culture and traditions..Question the beliefs and traditions that undergird gender violence and discrimination.Support an organization working to eradicate gender-based violence such as sex trafficking, domestic violence, and prostitution.We can:● Educate ourselves about the gender-based violence most prevalent in our community.● Evaluate our culture and traditions. Are there beliefs or practices that encourage gender-based violence and discrimination, such as male dominance, son preference, lack of education for girls, female genital mutilation, heavy work loads for women, blaming the rape victim, forced early marriage for girls, financial dependence, lack of safe havens, etc.● Question the beliefs and traditions that undergird gender violence and discrimination.

50Donate regularly or hold a fundraiser. Encourage local law enforcement agencies to receive specialized training for dealing with domestic abuse, and to devote resources to prevention of gender-based violence.● Support an organization working to eradicate gender-based violence such as sex trafficking, domestic violence, and prostitution. Donate regularly or hold a fundraiser.● Encourage local law enforcement agencies to receive specialized training for dealing with domestic abuse, and to devote resources to prevention of gender-based violence.

51Pray for victims of abuse, gender-based violence, and exploitationPray for victims of abuse, gender-based violence, and exploitation. Pray for a change in the hearts of their abusers.Host a weekly prayer group or book study group on some aspect of gender-based violenceVolunteer my time and talents to a group or ministry serving victims of violence or abuse.● Pray for victims of abuse, gender-based violence, and exploitation. Pray for a change in the hearts of their abusers.● Host a weekly prayer group or book study group on some aspect of gender-based violence● Volunteer my time and talents to a group or ministry serving victims of violence or abuse.

52B. WHAT CAN MY LOCAL CHURCH DO?As a community of believers who recognize the value God places on each person, we have an opportunity to work as Christ did, to free the captives, to set at liberty those who are oppressed. Let us take a little time to answer the question, “What can my local church do to help prevent gender violence and to help victims heal?B. WHAT CAN MY LOCAL CHURCH DO?When we hear of the evil and violence in our world, it is vital not to be “overcome by evil,” but rather to ask ourselves, “What can I do?” It is also good to ask, “What can my local church do?” As a community of believers who recognize the value God places on each person, we have an opportunity to work as Christ did, to free the captives, to set at liberty those who are oppressed. Let us take a little time to answer the question, “What can my local church do to help prevent gender violence and to help victims heal?[Facilitator: ask for suggestions from your discussion group. If possible write them on a chalkboard or flip chart. Then add items from the following list, allowing time for comment if possible.]

53One small but vital principle the church must apply is that of confidentiality.Recognize that gender-based violence is a tremendous evil, that it is never acceptable and cannot be condoned.Compile complete, up-to-date information about all resources in your community available to victims of any type of gender-based violence.● One small but vital principle the church must apply is that of confidentiality. It is imperative that any victim of gender-based violence may speak with an appropriate church leader in total confidence. If there is ever a situation in which the church leader is required to report to law enforcement or other appropriate authorities, s/he will disclose this to the person seeking counsel or assistance, and will treat the matter with utmost care and discretion. The victim’s safety is of supreme importance.● Recognize that gender-based violence is a tremendous evil, that it is never acceptable and cannot be condoned.● Compile complete, up-to-date information about all resources in your community available to victims of any type of gender-based violence. Make sure the information is easily available to members and others. Get acquainted with shelters and referral sources to learn what services they offer and when they are open.

54Organize a group to assess the needs in the local community.Collect funds and provide your church leaders with educational materials on gender violence.Create a church lending library of materials on gender-based violence issues relevant to your community .Organize a group to assess the needs in the local community.● Collect funds and provide your church leaders with educational materials on gender violence.● Create a church lending library of materials on gender-based violence issues relevant to your community so members and leaders may become educated on this vital topic.● Organize a group to assess the needs in the local community. What is one need our group can address that may help reduce gender-based violence?

55Create one or more “safe houses” where abuse victims can find emergency shelter.Present sermons and workshops to the congregation and the community on issues of gender-based violence relevant to your community.Examine church policies and practices to be sure none foster or encourage hurtful or discriminatory attitudes towards women.● Create one or more “safe houses” where abuse victims can find emergency shelter.● Present sermons and workshops to the congregation and the community on issues of gender-based violence relevant to your community. Offer to present age-appropriate information in local schools.● Examine church policies and practices to be sure none foster or encourage hurtful or discriminatory attitudes towards women.

56Provide ongoing support to a local women’s shelter or other organization benefitting victims of gender-based violence.Care for hurting people in our church. Be non-judgmental. Develop support groups.Help raise awareness. Share materials about gender-based violence with your community.● Provide ongoing support to a local women’s shelter or other organization benefitting victims of gender-based violence.● Care for hurting people in our church. Be non-judgmental. Develop support groups.● Help raise awareness. Share materials about gender-based violence with your community.

57VIII. CONCLUSIONDuring this seminar we have become more aware of the tremendous problem of gender-based violence. Believing that we must indeed act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God, we each have an opportunity to find a way to commit ourselves to making a difference.VIII. CONCLUSIONA. OUR OPPORTUNITYDuring this seminar we have become more aware of the tremendous problem of gender-based violence. Believing that we must indeed act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God, we each have an opportunity to find a way to commit ourselves to making a difference.I urge you to take the [commitment card or slip of paper] being handed out. Prayerfully decide what YOU will do to help combat this evil. Mark your card (or write down what you will do). Sign your name, and keep your commitment pledge in a special place, perhaps your Bible, where you will be reminded every day that YOU can make a difference! Let us pray that God, the father of us all, will strengthen each one of us to address the immense issue of gender-based violence.B. PRAYER OF COMMITMENTSAMPLE COMMITMENT CARD